What Are Cardboard Display Boxes and How Are They Used in Retail

Table of Contents

What Are Cardboard Display Boxes and How Are They Used in Retail
Image Source: unsplash

Cardboard display boxes help products stand out in stores. These boxes show off, protect, and advertise items on shelves. Many stores pick retail display boxes because they are strong and easy to use. In 2024, paper and paperboard display boxes make up 57% of the market. The global display packaging market is now worth $23.4 billion.

Statistic Description

Figure / Detail

Market share of paper & paperboard display boxes (2024)

57%

Counter & pop-up display boxes market size forecast (2034)

$11.1 billion

Display packaging market CAGR (2025-2034)

5.4%

Cardboard displays, like pdq displays, meet many store needs. Stores use pdq displays, cardboard display stands, and PDQ trays to help people see products better and buy more. Cardboard display boxes and pdq displays also help the environment. They attract shoppers who like green choices.

Key Takeaways

  • Cardboard display boxes help stores show products to people. They keep items safe and use bright designs to get attention. These boxes come in many types like floor displays, countertop boxes, and PDQ displays. Each type has a special job in stores. Cardboard displays do not cost much and are easy to set up. They are light and good for the environment. This makes them a smart pick for stores. Custom designs with logos and colors help brands stand out. They also make it easier for shoppers to find things. Putting display boxes in busy or eye-level spots helps sales. It grabs shoppers’ attention and makes them want to buy things quickly.

Cardboard Display Boxes Overview

Cardboard Display Boxes Overview

What Are Cardboard Display Boxes

Cardboard display boxes are important in stores. They help stores show products in ways that get attention. Stores use these displays to keep items neat and safe. They also make products easy to see on shelves or counters. Cardboard display boxes come in many shapes and sizes. Some hold snacks, while others show off makeup or small gadgets. Stores like retail display boxes because they are light and strong. They are also simple to move around.

Stores all over the world use cardboard displays in many areas. Food, drinks, personal care, and home goods all use these displays. The market for corrugated cardboard boxes is growing fast. This is because stores want packaging that is ready for retail. Die-cut display containers now make up 30% of the retail-ready packaging market in 2024. These special boxes help people see products better and cut down on waste. Makers use eco-friendly materials and new ideas. They add things like soft padding, seals that show if opened, and tracking tools. Companies in Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe lead this change. Online shopping and shipping also use cardboard display boxes. They are strong and can be used in many ways.

Note: Cardboard display boxes help brands reach more shoppers. They make products easy to spot and grab. They also help stores meet green goals, which many people care about now.

Main Features

Retail display boxes have many features that make them popular. These features help both stores and shoppers.

  • Customizable Design: Stores can get display boxes in many shapes, sizes, and colors. This helps brands match their boxes to their products and store look.

  • Easy Setup: Many pdq displays and retail display boxes are ready to use. Workers can set them up fast, which saves time.

  • Dual Function: Some pdq displays work as both shipping and display boxes. This means products come in the same box that goes on the shelf.

  • Strong and Lightweight: Cardboard displays use tough materials. They keep products safe but are still easy to move.

  • Eco-Friendly Materials: Most retail display boxes use paper and board that can be recycled. This helps stores go green.

  • High-Quality Printing: Brands put bright pictures and logos on display boxes. This makes people notice them and helps with branding.

  • Product Visibility: Many displays are open so shoppers can see and reach products easily.

Stores check how well their cardboard displays work in different ways. They look at sales, how many people buy, and how fast items sell. They also check if displays help make more money. Putting displays in busy spots helps these numbers go up. Clear logos, fun pictures, and good colors help too. Stores use tools to count people and check sales to make displays better. They try different looks and places to see what works best.

Feature

Benefit for Retailers and Shoppers

Custom-fit design

Makes products easy to see, cuts waste

Quick setup

Saves time, helps workers

Dual function (ship & display)

Less work, faster to put out products

Eco-friendly materials

Good for the planet, shoppers like it

High-quality printing

Helps branding, gets attention

Strong yet lightweight

Keeps items safe, easy to move

Cardboard displays help stores keep up with trends and seasons. Stores can change displays fast for new items or sales. This makes retail display boxes a smart pick for many stores.

Types of Display Boxes

Types of Display Boxes
Image Source: unsplash

Stores use different display boxes to show products and help sales. Each display box fits a certain spot in the store. Every type has its own job. Stores pick the best display for their plan and what they sell.

Floor Displays

Floor displays stand by themselves and go in busy places. These boxes hold lots of products and get noticed from far away. Stores use them for new things, holiday items, or big sales. Planograms help managers put these displays in good spots. This helps guide shoppers and sell more. Floor displays use bright pictures and strong cardboard for heavy things. Some have shelves or hooks. Others are open bins so people can grab items easily.

Tip: Floor displays work great near doors or at aisle ends. They help shoppers see special products fast.

Countertop Display Boxes

Countertop display boxes sit on counters or service desks. These displays hold small things like candy, lip balm, or batteries. Stores use them to make people buy things without planning. The small size fits tight spots and keeps things neat. Good printing on these boxes helps brands get noticed. Stores change these displays for seasons or sales.

PDQ Displays

PDQ displays, or “Pretty Darn Quick” displays, set up fast and show products well. Stores use pdq displays for snacks, makeup, and small items. These boxes ship flat and pop up quickly, saving workers time. PDQ displays can be used for shipping and showing products. This helps busy stores. Custom pdq displays let brands add logos, colors, and pictures. Stores put pdq displays on counters, shelves, or near checkouts to get more impulse buys. PDQ displays work for many store plans, like new items or holiday sales.

  • PDQ displays are:

    • Light and simple to move

    • Quick to put together

    • Used for shipping and showing

    • Good for busy spots

End Caps and Dump Bins

End caps go at the ends of aisles and use display boxes to show special products. These displays get more looks than normal shelves. Stores use end caps for sales, new things, or holiday items. Dump bins are big, open boxes that hold lots of loose products. Shoppers can reach in from any side, so dump bins are good for bulk or sale items. Both end caps and dump bins use strong cardboard and bright pictures to get attention. Planograms help stores put these displays in the best places.

Display Type

Best Use

Placement Area

Floor Displays

Promotions, new items

Entrances, aisles

Countertop Displays

Impulse buys

Checkout counters

PDQ Displays

Fast setup, variety

Counters, shelves

End Caps/Dump Bins

Bulk, featured items

Aisle ends, open areas

Note: The right display boxes help stores keep things neat, get noticed, and sell more. Stores use planograms to pick the best spot for each display.

Retail Display Boxes in Merchandising

Product Visibility

Retail display boxes help shoppers see products fast. Stores put these displays near doors or busy spots. This makes products easy to notice right away. When people walk in, they spot items quickly. This can help stores sell more.

Stores use pdq displays and point-of-purchase displays for new or popular things. These displays have bright colors and fun designs. This grabs attention. Brands use the same logos and colors to build trust. It also helps people find their products easily. Some displays have clear fronts or open sides. This lets shoppers see what is inside. It helps them choose what to buy.

Stores often group similar items in one display box. For example, snacks might be with drinks, or batteries with electronics. This makes people want to buy more than one thing. This is called cross-selling. Using retail display boxes helps stores show products better and makes shopping simple.

Tip: If stores put display boxes at eye level, people see them faster. Shoppers do not have to look up or down to find things.

Promotional Uses

Retail display boxes help stores with many promotions. They help brands show off new products or sales. Stores use pdq displays and endcap displays for special deals. These displays have big signs that say things like “Today Only” or “Limited Time.”

Promotional displays use bright colors and cool pictures. This makes shopping feel exciting. When people see these displays, they want to buy fast. Stores change display boxes for holidays or seasons. For example, they use holiday colors or special boxes at certain times. This keeps shopping fun and new.

Stores put promotional display boxes in busy aisles or at shelf ends. These places get lots of people walking by. This helps stores get more attention for their deals. Using the same brand look on boxes helps shoppers remember and trust the brand.

Promotional Strategy

How Retail Display Boxes Help

New product launches

Show new items with special displays

Seasonal promotions

Use themed boxes for holidays

Limited-time offers

Add signs and colors for urgency

Cross-merchandising

Group related items for more sales

Impulse and Seasonal Merchandising

Impulse buying is when people buy things they did not plan to get. Retail display boxes are great for this. Stores put pdq displays and countertop display boxes near checkouts or busy spots. Shoppers see these displays while waiting or walking by. This makes them buy things without planning.

If there are only a few choices in a display box, it is easier to pick. Shoppers do not feel confused and buy faster. Stores also put matching products together in one box. For example, sunscreen and sunglasses in summer. This makes people want to buy both.

Seasonal merchandising uses retail display boxes for trends or holidays. Stores change displays for each season. For example, red and green boxes for winter or bright ones for spring. This keeps shoppers interested and coming back.

Note: Some display boxes let shoppers touch, smell, or hear products. This makes shopping more fun. It helps people remember the brand and buy more.

Stores use retail display boxes to make products look good. By showing products well, stores help people find what they want and buy more. Retail cardboard display boxes help with both planned and impulse buys.

Benefits of Cardboard Display Boxes

Cost-Effectiveness

Cardboard displays help stores save money in many ways. They cost less to make than metal or plastic ones. Shipping is cheaper because cardboard is light. Workers can move and set them up fast. This saves time and money for the store. Many stores pick cardboard displays to lower costs and still look nice. These displays are good for short sales or holiday events. Stores can swap them out often without spending a lot.

  • Lower costs to make and buy

  • Cheaper shipping and handling

  • Fast setup saves work

Tip: Cardboard displays help stores spend less and earn more.

Customization and Branding

Stores use custom display boxes to show their brand. Cardboard displays come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Stores can print logos, pictures, and bright designs on them. This helps products stand out and makes brands easy to remember. Custom displays let stores match their look to products and ads. These displays are great for new items, trade shows, and special events. Custom displays also help stores build a strong brand image.

Customization Option

Branding Benefit

Colors & Graphics

Gets people to look

Logos & Messaging

Makes brand stronger

Unique Shapes

Shows off products

Eco-Friendly Advantages

Many shoppers care about the planet. Cardboard displays use recycled materials and can be recycled again. This makes them a green choice for stores. Stores that use cardboard displays show they care about the earth. This can bring in shoppers who like eco-friendly brands. Cardboard displays help stores reach green goals and look good to the public.

Flexibility and Mobility

Cardboard displays give stores lots of options. They fit many products and store spaces. Workers can move them to new spots easily. Stores can change displays for new seasons or sales with little work. Cardboard displays are simple to set up and take down. This helps stores keep displays new and fun.

Note: Cardboard displays help stores try new ideas. They make it easy for stores to change and grow.

Choosing Display Boxes

Picking the right retail display boxes helps stores sell more. It also makes shopping better for customers. Stores must think about a few key things. Each thing helps make sure retail display boxes work well for the store.

Product Fit

Retail display boxes should fit the product’s size and weight. Small or light items do best in pegboard or gridwall displays. These displays save space and keep things tidy. Expensive items need safe retail display boxes, like glass cases. These boxes protect and show off the products. If too many items are in one retail display box, it looks crowded. This can make fancy products seem less special. Stores should not pack retail display boxes too full. There should be space so people can grab things easily.

  • Put related products together in one retail display box to help shoppers.

  • Do not stuff too many things in one retail display box.

Store Placement

Where retail display boxes go in the store matters a lot. End-cap retail display boxes at aisle ends get noticed fast. Shoppers see them without walking down the aisle. Window retail display boxes tell the brand story and pull people inside. Stores can use shelf stoppers to make people stop and look at special items. There should be enough space between retail display boxes and other things. This helps people walk around easily and feel comfortable.

Tip: Change retail display boxes and how they are set up often. This keeps shoppers interested and shows off new products.

Branding Needs

Retail display boxes help show off the brand. Signs, colors, and logos help people know the brand. Stores should use good printing on retail display boxes to look professional. Window retail display boxes can use lights, props, and products to show the brand’s style. Signs on retail display boxes should match the brand’s voice and help shoppers.

Branding Element

Retail Display Boxes Role

Colors & Logos

Help people know the brand

Signage

Give shoppers info and directions

Lighting

Make products look even better

Durability

Retail display boxes need to last in busy stores. Strong cardboard or reinforced board keeps products safe and neat. Stores should pick retail display boxes that fit their green goals and brand style. Retail display boxes that are easy to move help stores change things fast for sales or holidays.

Retail display boxes work for both long-term and short-term needs. Picking the right retail display boxes helps stores show products better. It also makes shopping more fun and easy for everyone.

Cardboard display boxes help stores in many ways. They keep products safe from getting broken. These boxes also help keep things neat and tidy. Stores spend less money because cardboard is cheaper than metal or plastic. Custom designs make brands easy to notice. Cardboard is good for the earth, so shoppers who care about nature like it. Stores can sell more and keep track of items better. To do even better, stores should check their displays or ask a display box supplier for help.

FAQ

What products work best with cardboard display boxes?

Cardboard display boxes are good for snacks, cosmetics, and small electronics. They also work for personal care items. Most stores use them for light or medium-weight things. These boxes help products look neat and easy to find.

Can stores recycle cardboard display boxes?

Yes, stores can recycle most cardboard display boxes. Many are made from recycled stuff. Recycling helps stores be greener and make less trash. It is smart to check local rules before recycling.

How long do cardboard display boxes last in stores?

Cardboard display boxes can last a few weeks or months. How long they last depends on how busy the store is. It also depends on how heavy the products are and how strong the box is. Stronger boxes keep things safe for longer.

Are cardboard display boxes safe for food items?

Many cardboard display boxes use safe materials for food. Stores use them for wrapped snacks and candy. Always look for food safety labels or ask the supplier to be sure.

Can stores customize the design of cardboard display boxes?

Stores can pick colors, logos, and shapes for their boxes. Custom designs help brands get noticed. Many suppliers help with printing and design to fit what stores want.

Picture of Anna

Anna

Anna is Colorfulpack’s content creator specializing in the packaging industry, Such as paper packaging boxes, corrugated packaging, paper bags and cardboard display ect. With a focus on educating and inspiring packaging professionals, brands, and product developers, she creates content that breaks down trends, showcases innovations, and highlights how great packaging drives brand success.

Get A Free Quote Now
Welcome To Share This Page:
Product Categories
Get A Free Quote Now !
Contact Form Demo (#3)

Related Products

Related News

Compare cardboard envelope packaging and poly mailers to see which offers better protection, cost savings, and eco benefits for your shipping needs.
Select custom paper gift bags that match your brand, product size, and eco-friendly goals for lasting customer impact.
Compare custom coffee packaging options for small businesses to boost freshness, branding, and cost-effectiveness.
Custom rigid packaging boxes offer superior protection, premium branding, and eco-friendly options, making them ideal for high-value and fragile products.
A metal tea tin can keeps tea fresher and safer than plastic, offering better protection from light, air, and moisture for long-lasting flavor.
Custom POP displays are tailored retail stands that boost product visibility and sales by attracting shoppers and enhancing brand presence in stores.
Custom rigid boxes are sturdy, premium packaging that protect products and enhance brand value with luxury presentation.
Choose the right foam inserts for packaging by considering product fragility, size, weight, and special needs to ensure safe, cost-effective shipping.
Scroll to Top

Get A Free Quote Now !

Contact Form Demo (#3)
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
luxury gift box handwork